Cadmium

Cadmium remains in the body for a long time and is stored in the kidneys, which can damage kidney function if large quantities of cadmium are ingested over a long period of time

Cadmium is a heavy metal that is present naturally in all soils. Cadmium also enters arable land mainly through air pollutants and through the use of fertilisers that are contaminated with cadmium. Other sources are sewage sludge and farmyard manure. Most of the cadmium intake for Swedish consumers' comes from cereal products and potatoes.

Is cadmium dangerous?

Cadmium remains in the body for a long time and is stored in the kidneys, which can damage kidney function if large quantities of cadmium are ingested over a long period of time. It is also suspected that children may be more sensitive to cadmium exposure than adults.